And the king commanded Hilkiah, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah a servant of the king's, saying,

2 CHRONICLES 34:20KJV
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2 Chronicles 34:20 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 34:20 mean?

2 Chronicles 34:20 shows King Josiah giving orders to several of his officials after hearing the reading of the Book of the Law. The verse lists the names and roles of the people Josiah commands, indicating he is about to send them on an important mission.

King Josiah is speaking to his high priest Hilkiah, along with Ahikam, Abdon, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah, who serves the king. This moment comes right after the discovery of the lost Book of the Law during temple repairs, and Josiah’s command signals the start of a response to what he has just learned. The verse sets up the next steps in the story, where Josiah seeks guidance about the meaning and consequences of the words found in the scroll.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 34:20

  • מֶלֶךְ (melech, "king"): This word identifies Josiah as the one with authority, emphasizing that the following actions are official royal commands.
  • צִוָּה (tsivvah, "commanded"): This verb shows Josiah is not just making a suggestion but giving a direct order, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of his response.
  • סֹפֵר (sofer, "scribe"): Shaphan’s role as a scribe means he is responsible for official records and communication, showing why he is included in this group.
  • עֶבֶד (eved, "servant"): Asaiah is called a servant of the king, which often means a trusted official or aide, not just a household servant. This shows Josiah is involving his closest and most reliable people.

Why 2 Chronicles 34:20 matters

  • This verse shows Josiah’s immediate and serious reaction to the discovery of the Book of the Law, highlighting his leadership and concern for following God’s instructions.
  • Listing the specific officials involved shows the importance of the task and the trust Josiah places in these men, setting up the next events where they will seek prophetic guidance.
  • The verse connects to the larger story of spiritual reform in Judah, marking a turning point where Josiah moves from hearing God’s word to taking action.